CAT 2024 Slot 1 Quant Solutions: Expert Strategies & Answer Breakdown
The Quantitative section in CAT 2024 Slot 1 tests analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills. Below is a structured guide to key topics, common question patterns, and solutions for a high score.
1. Data Interpretation & Analysis (DI)
Key Topics:
Caselets
Table Analysis
Graph Interpretation (Bar, Line, Pie)
Mixed Graphs (Combination of 2+ charts)
Example Question:
A company’s sales data for 4 quarters is given in a mixed graph. Q1 sales were 20% higher than Q4 of the previous year. If Q3 sales decreased by 15% YoY, what is the ratio of Q3 to Q4 sales?
Solution:
Extract Q3 and Q4 values from the graph.
Let previous year’s Q4 sales = ( x ).
Q1 current year = ( 1.2x ).
Q3 current year = ( 0.85x ) (15% decrease).
Ratio = ( \frac{0.85x}{1.2x} = \frac{17}{24} ).
Common Mistakes:
Misreading units (e.g., % vs. absolute values).
Forgetting to adjust for base years in case of YoY comparisons.
2. Logical & Verbal Reasoning
Focus Areas:
Blood Relations
Seating Arrangements
Puzzles (Alphabets, Numbers, Grids)
Sample Puzzle:
8 people (A-H) are seated in a circle. A sits opposite E. B is next to D but not adjacent to A. If C and F are diagonally opposite, who sits between D and G?
Solution:
Draw a circle and place A opposite E.
Place B next to D (positions 2 & 3).
C and F are diagonally opposite (positions 4 & 8).
Remaining positions: G and H.
Final arrangement: A (1), B (2), D (3), C (4), F (8), H (5), G (6), E (7).
Between D (3) and G (6) is H (5).
Pro Tip: Use elimination and process of elimination to save time.
3. Number Theory & Algebra
High-Weightage Topics:
Divisibility Rules
LCM/HCF
Quadratic Equations
Progressions (AP, GP)
Question:
Solve for ( x ): ( 3^{2x} - 4 \cdot 3^x + 3 = 0 ).
Solution:
Let ( y = 3^x ). Equation becomes ( y^2 - 4y + 3 = 0 ).
Factor: ( (y-1)(y-3) = 0 ).
( y = 1 ) → ( 3^x = 1 ) → ( x = 0 ).
( y = 3 ) → ( 3^x = 3 ) → ( x = 1 ).
Solutions: ( x = 0, 1 ).
Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to check if solutions satisfy original equations.
Misapplying logarithmic rules.
4. Geometry & Mensuration
Key Concepts:
Triangles (Area, Inradius, Circumradius)
Circles (Arc, Sector)
3D Solids (Volume, Surface Area)
Question:
A right circular cone has a height of 12 cm and slant height of 15 cm. Find its lateral surface area.
Solution:
Lateral Surface Area (LSA) = ( \pi r l ).
Use Pythagoras: ( r^2 + h^2 = l^2 ).
( r^2 + 12^2 = 15^2 ) → ( r = 9 ) cm.
LSA = ( \pi \cdot 9 \cdot 15 = 135\pi ) cm².
Time-Saver: Memorize formulas for cones, cylinders, and spheres.
5. Probability & Combinatorics
Common Questions:
Arrangements with restrictions
Probability of independent events
Combinations (nCr)
Example:
In how many ways can 5 boys and 5 girls be seated in a row if no two boys sit together?
Solution:
Arrange girls first: ( 5! ) ways.
Insert boys in gaps between girls: ( 6 ) gaps.
Choose 5 gaps and arrange boys: ( P(6,5) = 6 \cdot 5! ).
Total = ( 5! \cdot 6 \cdot 5! = 6! \cdot 5! ).
Key Insight: Use slots for gender/subject separation.
CAT 2024 Quant Prep Tips
Practice Previous Year slot 1 papers to identify recurring patterns.
Focus on 700+ level questions (CAT cutoff for 99+ percentile).
Use approximation techniques for lengthy calculations (e.g., estimating roots).
Review time management: Allocate 40-50 minutes to DI and 30-40 to others.
Final Note: Stay updated on CAT 2024’s official syllabus and mock test trends.
For more solved examples and mock tests, refer to official CAT guides or trusted prep platforms like [XAT/CMAT 2024 materials].
Good luck with your CAT preparation! 🚀
|
